Culture

First American woman wins Boston Marathon since 1985

The 2018 Boston Marathon took place on Monday and 34-year-old runner Desiree Linden became the first American to win the women's race in 33 years.

Linden, who represented the United States in both the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, endured the rain and cold Boston temperatures to take the history-making victory, the first for an American woman in this marathon since 1985. Her time was 2 hours 39 minutes 53 seconds.

Here's emotional footage of her running across the finish line celebrating by hugging her husband and coach.

Within our inner competitive running world, amongst private and public conversations, I don’t know of a single athlete who doesn’t respect and admire @des_linden We couldn’t have a more deserving American @bostonmarathon champion. Congratulations Des. ❤️

Over three decades have passed since an American woman last won Boston, but today marks an end to the streak. Congratulations to @des_linden on a truly incredible first place finish today, we couldn’t be any prouder. Now go celebrate with a post-race beer! #RunHappyBOSpic.twitter.com/C5svSzf5xN

Many who were keeping up with the race also took the time to celebrate the fact that Linden stopped to help her teammate Shalane Flanagan take a bathroom break at a Port-a-Potty earlier. It appeared as though Linden slowed down to wait for Flanagan, who ended up coming in sixth, and helped her build up momentum again.

Take Note people: @des_linden helped a 'teammate' in Shalane early in the race and is now on her way to win. Don't be selfish, recognize some things are bigger than yourself.

Linden temporarily took herself out of contention to help fellow American Shalane Flanagan, who dropped out of the lead pack to go to a portable toilet. Linden hung back to wait for Flanagan so they could both return to the lead pack together. #BostonMarathon

Boston Marathon champ Linden tells NBC: in early miles she felt miserable, so she told US teammate Flanagan, "If there's anything I can do to help you out let me know because I might drop out." Helped with bathroom break, then rebounded for the win.

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